The Sushil Koirala Memorial Foundation (SKMF) recently launched a unique event in Nepal, distributing fountain pens engraved with the message "#RightToWrite" to members of the Federal Parliament. This initiative promotes literacy, intellectual empowerment, and the enduring significance of writing in a digital age. The event, a first of its kind in Nepal, highlights the importance of education and intellectual freedom.
The "Right to Write" campaign resonates deeply in a world dominated by digital communication, reminding us of the importance of traditional, thoughtful, and deliberate writing. As the fountain pen makes its resurgence, this initiative serves as a catalyst for broader conversations about education, literacy, and intellectual expression in the modern era.
This event in Nepal is a significant step forward in advocating for the right to education and intellectual engagement, setting a powerful precedent for similar movements worldwide. By placing the fountain pen in the hands of lawmakers, the message is clear: writing is not just an act—it is a right, a freedom, and a powerful tool for shaping the future.There is hardly anyone who has not heard the proverb: "The pen is mightier than the sword." The pen is indeed mightier than the sword. While the sword can harm physically, the pen can change the world intellectually.
Our special thanks go to Speaker of House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire, Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar, former Chairman of National Assembly Ganesh Prasad Timilsina, Vice Chairperson of National Assembly Urmila Aryal, President of the Sushil Koirala Memorial Foundation Dr. Shashank Koirala, senior member of federal parliament Pashupati SJB Rana, lawmakers NP Saud and Devi Prakash Bhattachan and Managing Director of Pen Boutique, USA, Leena Shrestha make this event successful.
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The significance of this proverb is not just historical but deeply relevant today. The sword may impose physical control, but the pen penetrates the very essence of thought and conviction. A single stroke of the pen can challenge ideologies, inspire revolutions, and cultivate lasting change in ways that mere physical force cannot. History is replete with examples where the power of the written word has outlasted the transient triumphs of military might.
Consider the legacy of great thinkers and writers throughout history. Their words, inscribed with care and deliberation, have left an indelible mark on humanity. From the philosophical treatises of ancient scholars to the revolutionary writings of more recent times, the pen has been a tool of profound influence. While battles may have been fought and won in the blink of an eye, the ideas articulated by writers have resonated through the ages, guiding societies toward progress.
Despite the dominance of the digital age, handwriting remains an irreplaceable tradition. No electronic gadget can fully replicate the depth and personal connection that comes with putting pen to paper. This is why, even in today's tech-driven world, many professionals still carry a small notebook and pen. They find comfort in jotting down their thoughts, ideas, and observations, knowing they can easily revisit and reflect on them later.
Knowledge has the power to transform society, and it is through education that we can truly change the world. A single child, guided by a dedicated teacher and equipped with a book and a pen, holds the potential to make a profound impact. The pen, in particular, plays a crucial role in this journey. It teaches students that mistakes are not failures but learning opportunities, encouraging them to pause, reflect, and think critically before they write.
The pen symbolizes much more than a simple writing tool—it represents freedom, intelligence, creativity, professionalism, determination, and diligence. As a gift, a pen carries the profound message of valuing the recipient's freedom of thought, which is why it has become a traditional graduation gift. In its enduring significance, the pen stands as an intellectual weapon, shaping the minds of the youth and, ultimately, the future of the nation.
A fountain pen writes letters, and handwriting is absolutely fundamental. Without the alphabet, everything falls apart—everything. All culture depends on the alphabet, like a baby’s first words. What's even more fascinating is how terms like "M-mom" and "Ma-mama" (आमा in Nepali, माँ in Devanagari) have similar or related versions across the world. This is no coincidence, as many languages around the world have repetitious syllables in their child words.
Written language is one of the most fundamental forms of human communication, enabling the exchange of information across distances and for various purposes. The act of handwriting, in particular, requires a sophisticated interaction between motor and cognitive processes. As we write, several areas of the brain are continuously activated and deactivated in a bidirectional manner—a process that varies significantly in individuals, such as those with epilepsy.
The complexity of handwriting lies in its many stages: planning, message generation, identification, linear ordering, directive assignment, morphological processing, and phonological coding. Each stage engages different parts of the brain, making handwriting not just a simple act but a deeply intricate cognitive process. Given this complexity, the role of handwriting extends beyond mere communication—it holds both diagnostic and prognostic value in understanding cognitive and neurological functions.
The act of writing—whether it be essays, articles, or opinion pieces—is not merely a tradition but a vital tool for intellectual engagement and social progress. It is through this deliberate process that we preserve critical insights and drive meaningful change. As such, I call upon all those with knowledge and influence to embrace the power of the pen, to write with purpose, and to lead by example.
As we grapple with complex social, domestic, health, and political issues, the role of scholars, intellectuals, and leaders in harnessing the pen's power becomes increasingly vital. A well-crafted piece of writing has the potential to ignite change, challenge the status quo, and guide public discourse in ways that digital snippets rarely achieve. The pen offers a platform for those with knowledge and wisdom to address pressing issues with clarity and insight, making a lasting impact on their audience.
We urge all thought leaders and learned individuals to recognize and embrace the transformative power of writing. This is not merely about preserving tradition but about leveraging the pen as a tool for progress and societal improvement. In a world awash with digital noise, let us return to the art of thoughtful writing, using our pens to inspire, educate, and drive real change and harmony in society. The more the powerful fear the pen and the opinions of intellectuals, the better the guidance for the future.
The pen remains a potent force in shaping our world. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us wield this powerful instrument with purpose and conviction, ensuring that our voices and ideas resonate beyond the immediate and effect enduring change.
As we face complex global challenges, it is imperative for those in positions of knowledge and influence to reclaim the power of the pen. Their writings can bridge divides, ignite discussions, and drive meaningful change. This is a call to action: to embrace the pen's potential, to use it not just as a tool of communication but as a weapon for progress.
